Prime Minister Rumen Radev does not expect ties with Iran to deteriorate

Prime Minister Rumen Radev said he did not expect Bulgaria's long-standing relations with Iran to deteriorate after Tehran criticised Sofia's decision to host U.S. aerial refuelling aircraft. 

Bulgaria is now expecting up to eight U.S. aerial refuelling aircraft at Bezmer Air Base, which Radev described as a much safer location.

• Iran says stationing of U.S. aircraft in Bulgaria is a dangerous decision
• Parliament approves stationing of U.S. tanker aircraft at Bezmer

"Had it not been for our government, 15 aerial refuelling aircraft would have remained at Sofia Airport until October," he told reporters. Radev said there was no confirmed date for the arrival of the U.S. aircraft, but all the necessary arrangements had been made.

• Mayors oppose stationing of U.S. aircraft at Bezmer

Speaking after the ruling Progressive Bulgaria party announced its support for Iliana Iotova's presidential bid, Radev said the two had worked together over the past 10 years to strengthen Bulgaria's statehood. He expressed confidence that Iotova would continue to defend the public interest and seek consensus between institutions.

• Initial sociological survey on attitudes before the presidential vote is now out

He added that Iotova's candidacy would be nominated by an initiative committee and that discussions on her running mate for vice president would likely be held with the committee.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova